Cancer Screening

There are nearly 14 million cancer survivors living in the United States. Survival rates are climbing, thanks in part to better screening and early detection. While we don't have screening tools to catch every type of cancer early, the tests that we do have are very effective and save countless lives every year.

The information below provides general screening guidelines. Screening varies based on your personal and family history, so talk to your doctor about the schedule that's best for you.

Lung Cancer

A low-dose CT scan of the lungs may detect lung cancer in its earliest stage, when it is easiest to treat. You may be a candidate for low-dose CT lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria:

Age 55-80 years

30 pack-year history of smoking or greater. (A pack-year refers to
the number of cigarettes smoked per day for a year. Smoking one pack per
day for 30 years equates to 30 pack-years. Smoking two packs a day for
30 years equates to 60 pack-years. Smoking a half-pack a day for 30
years equates to 15 pack-years.)

If you're an ex-smoker, you've quit within the past 15 years

Or:

Age 50 or older

20 pack-year smoking history

One additional risk factor, including COPD or pulmonary fibrosis;
radon exposure; occupational exposure to asbestos, silica, cadmium,
arsenic, beryllium, chromium, diesel fumes or nickel; personal history
of cancer; or family history of cancer.

To learn more about lung cancer screening, call 912-350-LUNG (5864) or